Zesty Apple-Peanut Coleslaw

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 6
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This Zesty Apple-Peanut Coleslaw is the perfect blend of crunchy, tangy, and sweet. It’s a refreshing twist on the classic coleslaw, ideal for your next barbecue or picnic. The secret? A touch of apple and roasted peanuts that elevate its texture and flavor profile.

Ingredients for Zesty Apple-Peanut Coleslaw

Green cabbage is the base of our coleslaw, providing a crunchy texture. Using just half a head ensures the right balance with the other ingredients. Granny Smith apple adds a tart sweetness that complements the savory elements. Its firm flesh holds up well in the salad. Roasted peanuts bring a nutty crunch and a hint of saltiness, making each bite interesting. Fresh cilantro adds brightness and a pop of color, tying together the flavors beautifully.

The mayonnaise forms the creamy base of the dressing, while apple cider vinegar introduces a tangy note that harmonizes with the apple. A touch of honey balances the acidity with sweetness. Dijon mustard adds a slight tang and depth, and seasoning with salt and black pepper rounds everything out, enhancing the overall flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a sweeter coleslaw, add a bit more honey to the dressing.
  • For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
  • Use a mandoline slicer for uniform apple and cabbage slices — it saves time and ensures even texture.

Serving Suggestions

This coleslaw is a fantastic side dish for grilled meats like chicken or pork. It also pairs nicely with burgers or as a topping for fish tacos. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty bean salad or a quinoa dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance. Just give it a good stir before serving.
Can I use red cabbage instead?
Absolutely! Red cabbage will add a vibrant color and slightly different flavor.
What if I don’t like cilantro?
You can substitute parsley or leave it out if you prefer.

Zesty Apple-Peanut Coleslaw Recipe Walkthrough

Start by getting a large mixing bowl — you’ll need space to toss everything together. Add the shredded cabbage, julienned apple, chopped peanuts, and cilantro into the bowl. Make sure the apple is cut into matchstick pieces, so it distributes evenly and doesn’t overpower any bite.

Now, grab a smaller bowl for the dressing. Whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and Dijon mustard. Add the salt and black pepper, then keep whisking until the mixture looks smooth and creamy. It should have a nice balance of tangy and sweet.

Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture. Use a pair of salad tongs or your hands (clean, of course) to toss everything until it’s well coated. This ensures every piece gets a bit of that lovely dressing.

Cover the bowl and let the coleslaw sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.

Before serving, give the coleslaw another good stir to redistribute the dressing. Then it’s ready to be enjoyed!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare and full of fresh flavors.
  • No cooking required — just mix and chill.
  • Unique combination of apple and peanut for a delightful crunch.
  • Perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings.

Ingredients

1/2 head of green cabbage, shredded
1 large Granny Smith apple, julienned
1/2 cup of roasted peanuts, chopped
1/4 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
1/3 cup of mayonnaise
2 tbsp of apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp of honey
1 tsp of Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp of salt
1/4 tsp of black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, julienned apple, chopped peanuts, and cilantro.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until thoroughly combined.
4. Let the coleslaw sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Stir again before serving.

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